Whether you’re an experienced driver or a new driver, staying alert is the best way to avoid an accident. The road is full of aggressive drivers, so it’s important to be a good defensive driver. The team at Ashenden & Hollingsworth, P.C., experienced in car accident law in Georgia, has compiled these helpful tips on how to become a good defensive driver.
Stay Focused and Alert
There are always going to be distractions when you’re driving: the radio, your phone, a travel mug full of coffee. Always staying alert around every turn is an important first step. Defensive drivers concentrate on the road and cars around them, keeping their hands at the 10 and 2 o’clock positions. Try not to multitask while driving. Remember: it can wait!
Keep Your Eyes Moving and Be Proactive – Not Reactive
Always scanning the road is critical for a defensive driver. Continuously checking your mirrors and looking for hazards on the road ahead of you will help you anticipate a problem before it happens. Avoid driving while tired or drowsy, as this can delay reaction time.
Go with the Flow
A defensive driver’s mantra should be: not too fast, not too slow. Driving with the speed of traffic around you will help you avoid accidents. It’s true that speeding can cause serious accidents, but driving too slow can cause them as well. For example, if an impatient driver swerves into other lanes to pass slower cars, it can cause accidents with innocent drivers.
Leave Appropriate Spacing Between You and the Car In Front of You
It is always smart to leave a good amount of space between you and the car in front of you. This practice helps ensure that you will have enough time to react in case the car in front of you slams on their breaks or swerves to avoid something in the road. To determine the right distance, first select an object ahead of you on the road (tree, sign, etc.). When the vehicle ahead of you passes the object, count to two. If you didn’t make the count before reaching the object, you’re following too closely.
Make Yourself Visible on the Road
Using your turn signals, headlights, brake lights, and avoiding blind spots can all help other drivers see you on the road. If the cars around you are unaware of your vehicle, they are more likely to swerve into you or rear end you.
Resist Road Rage
Drivers with road rage are a nuisance, but aggressively responding and encouraging their behavior is never a good idea. The best thing to do when dealing with aggravated drivers is stay out of their way. If you see someone speeding up behind you, simply try your best to switch lanes. If another driver is tailgating you, just keep your speed and they will most likely pass you.
Contact the Car Accident Attorneys at Ashenden & Hollingsworth, P.C.
Becoming a defensive driver is the best thing you can do to avoid being involved in a car accident. If you have been involved in a car accident, the attorneys at Ashenden & Hollingsworth, P.C. are ready to review your case and talk to you about next steps. Contact our personal injury lawyers for a free consultation today.
